Learn what lifestyle strategies can help prevent or slow down the onset of Alzheimer's disease.

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Many recent studies on Alzheimer's disease prevention have focused on the possible benefits of new pharmaceutical drugs, but there is also a growing interest in lifestyle strategies and the role that diet, vitamins, and physical and mental exercise might play in Alzheimer's disease prevention. Although there isn't yet a cure for this debilitating illness, research is suggesting that lifestyle changes and diet may hold an important key to the prevention, delay, or reversal of Alzheimer’s disease.

“The problem with Alzheimer’s is that there are a number of risk factors that may be involved. Some of these factors, such as age or genetics, simply can’t be controlled. But there is ongoing research investigating other areas including, but not limited to, antioxidants such as vitamin E, , estrogen, exercise, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Some of the research in these areas is quite compelling,” says Warachal Faison, MD, of the Alzheimer’s research and clinical programs at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, N.C. and a member of the medical advisory board of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Researchers believe that the certain factors can play a role in the development of Alzheimer's, and that lifestyle strategies that address these risks may help prevent or delay its onset. Risks include:

Head Trauma

Brain injuries, especially early in life, have been associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer’s. Practically, this means you should make sure that children wear protective helmets for bicycling, skiing, and other sporting activities, and that they are properly secured in car seats and use seat belts correctly.

Early Life Risk Factors

Research has shown that infections, obesity, poor nutrition, and pesticide exposure early in life all may be linked to the development of Alzheimer’s later in life. Again, providing a healthy environment during childhood and staying up-to-date on doctor’s checkups can help protect against Alzheimer’s in years to come.

The Heart Connection

Alzheimer’s and heart disease share many of the same risk factors. These include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, stress, being overweight, and not getting enough exercise. “In my experience, what is good for the heart is good for the brain. Therefore, I recommend that people exercise regularly, eat healthy, control diabetes, lower cholesterol, and lower high blood pressure,” says Dr. Faison.

Diet and Nutrition

Because studies done to evaluate the relationship between diet and Alzheimer’s disease have had a number of structural problems, no specific recommendations for the prevention of Alzheimer’s can be made at this time.

While some research has demonstrated that vitamin E supplementation may offer some benefit, the Women’s Health Study showed no cognitive gain over 10 years of supplementation, and the risk of death (mortality) increased among some study participants taking vitamin E. There are also studies that suggest that low levels of the B vitamins folate, B6, and B12 can increase the risk of dementia, but there is little evidence that taking supplements will help.

What researchers do know, however, is that a heart-healthy diet is also healthy for the brain, so consider avoiding foods with added sugar and eating more of those with antioxidants, including fresh fruits and vegetables, and those rich in natural healthy fats, especially fish, nuts, olives, and olive oil.

Staying Active

Remaining active, mentally, physically, and socially, may be one of the most important aspects of Alzheimer’s disease prevention. “It's important to engage in mental-boosting activities as well as social activities,” notes Faison. “Quite frankly, it would not surprise me if regular physical exercise proves to be one of the key factors in Alzheimer's prevention.” Engaging regularly in a crossword puzzle, brisk walk, and get-togethers with family and friends are all to your benefit as far as Alzheimer’s prevention goes.

Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention: Follow Your Common Sense

Over the years, there have been tremendous strides in research on Alzheimer's disease prevention. Lisa Gwyther, MSW, the director of the family support program at Duke University Medical Center, in Durham, N.C, says that until more definitive research is released,, the Alzheimer’s prevention strategies recommended today are really about common sense. “Eat a healthy diet, get control of risk factors for heart disease and stroke, get plenty of exercise, and stay active socially and mentally. Reduce your stress levels and try to be flexible. A positive outlook is part of a good approach to Alzheimer’s prevention,” she says.

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